EU looks to step up migrant deportation to counter image of European good life, EU text says

BRUSSELS – The European Union is looking to step up the deportation of migrants as part of a drive to counter the impression that asylum-seekers will enjoy the good life once they make it to Europe.

An internal document on action to deal with the migrant influx, obtained by The Associated Press Wednesday, urges member countries to "take action to curb the level of expectation" of would-be asylum seekers.

"The swift return of migrants could serve as an example to counter the vain promise that migrants will see an immediate improvement in their lives," said the EU presidency text, obtained ahead of Thursday's summit of EU leaders.

More than 276,000 migrants entered the EU illegally last year. Conflict-torn Libya is the main starting point for people headed to Europe.